Facial Steaming

Restore the barrier of your skin and enjoy a meditative ritual with the ancient Ayurvedic practice of facial steaming.

For years when microdermabrasion and peels were all the rage (and still seem to be) I intuitively felt like it somehow damaged my skin, depleted it and made me look more worn out. Later, during my Ayurvedic studies, I learned that in this ancient tradition they believe we should always restore the barrier of the skin rather than thin it out. Adding oils to our beauty regimes helps the microbiome of the skin and strengthens it. Once we begin to disrupt the delicate bio sphere and peel it away, we are more prone to bacterial issues and thinning of the epidermis. It seems the beauty industry is now catching up and repairing the barrier and thickening it is becoming more looked for. With that aside, one easy, affordable, and non-invasive way to clear the skin and pores is to do facial steams. I do this only on a monthly basis and not weekly so as not to deplete the natural water levels in my skin.

Facial steaming is wonderful to do before a bath or shower. It opens your pores, which helps to get rid of impurities and enables your facial products to be absorbed more easily; afterward, you’ll be glowing. Steaming also can be a meditative time when you visualize all the incredible properties of the plants nourishing your skin and soul. Make your own custom facial steam by mixing wonderfully fragrant dried herbs with beautiful, colorful flowers. Be sure to look for organic, pesticide-free herbs and flowers from a trusted source. There are many different herbs that can be used for facial steaming and all come with unique benefits. Here is a guide on how to steam your face and a guide of some of my favorite herbs to use and their healing properties. I enjoy using what I can forage on my hikes and what I can grow myself.

HERBS FOR STEAMING 

 

CALENDULA 

Moisturizes dry skin and has anti-aging properties. See here. 

 

CHAMOMILE 

Acts as an anti-inflammatory and prevents wrinkles. See here.

 

CORNFLOWER 

Soothers and decongests the skin, acts as an astringent, and lightens the complexion.

 

DANDELION 

Releases impurities. See here. 

 

RASPBERRY LEAF (FECUNDI)

Soothes sensitive skin and balances hormones. See here. 

 

ROSE PETALS 

Act as an anti-inflammatory and help with sun damage.

 

SAGE 

Improves circulation.

 

YARROW 

Heals wounds and enhances circulation.

 

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR STEAMING 

Bergamot, Nerolin, Rose and Sandalwood.

 

TO STEAM YOUR FACE: 

• Thoroughly cleanse your face.
• Boil three cups of water in a pot. Remove the pot from the heat, and pour the water into a bowl.
• Add three tablespoons of a mix of herbs and flowers, and three to five drops of essential oil (if using). A little goes a long way.
• Cover and let steep for five minutes.
• Place your face over the bowl, and using a towel or cloth, create a tent to trap the steam.
• Sit for ten minutes, relaxing and visualizing beautiful images.
• Rinse your face with cool water.
• Follow with moisturizer or face oil.

 

SaveSave

SaveSaveSaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave

SaveSave